Patrick-Murray Administration Announces Program to Promote the Use of SNAP Benefits at Farmers' Markets

LAWRENCE — Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (DAR) Commissioner Scott Soares and Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) Commissioner Julia Kehoe today launched a joint program that allocates $50,000 to Massachusetts farmers markets to purchase Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) Terminals and promote the use of of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) at farmers’ markets.

“DAR is dedicated to making fresh, locally grown food accessible to every citizen of the Commonwealth,” said DAR Commissioner Soares. “I am pleased to work with the Department of Transitional Assistance on this effort to increase the number of EBT machines at farmers’ markets and I look forward to the day when they are available at all of the state’s farmers’ markets.”

“In these challenging times, it is especially critical for agencies and community partners to collaborate on creative solutions,” said DTA Commissioner Julia Kehoe. “Our work with the Department of Agricultural Resources is a perfect example. Expanding SNAP access at farmers’ markets stimulates the economy, assists families with eating healthy on a tight budget, and brings business to local growers.”

“This is a win-win investment that drives business to local farmers while providing communities across Massachusetts with access to fresh, healthy foods,” said US Senator John Kerry.

"This excellent and innovative initiative benefits both our local farmers as well as those who rely on food assistance to put meals on the table," said Congresswoman Niki Tsongas. "The need for such assistance is particularly great during this difficult economic period, and the Commonwealth should be commended for their thoughtful collaborative efforts to make healthy locally grown produce more accessible."

“Across my district, at places like the Food Project in Beverly and the Open Door food pantry in Cape Ann, there is consensus about the importance of fresh produce to a well-rounded diet. The value of proper nutrition should not be underestimated, which is why I am pleased that this funding will allow for more members of our community to benefit from available, local fruits and vegetables,” said Congressman John F. Tierney.

Currently, 34 out of the nearly 200 farmers’ markets across the Commonwealth have an EBT machine and accept SNAP benefits, formerly called food stamps.

DAR and DTA will work to increase the accessibility of fresh, healthy food at farmers markets to SNAP participants throughout the winter, and expect to add EBT machines to at least 20 markets next season. DTA has provided $50,000 to help more farmers’ market throughout Massachusetts obtain an EBT machine. The funds will also be used to promote farmers markets within communities. Farmers’ markets benefit local growers, provide shoppers with fresh, healthy, locally grown farm products and create community gathering places in cities and towns across the state.

SNAP serves more than 650,000 individuals in Massachusetts by assisting low-income individuals and families with purchasing healthy food. The program is federally funded and serves as the first line of defense against hunger. Individuals, families with children, seniors, and people with disabilities who are having difficulty meeting their basic needs are encouraged to apply for SNAP benefits by visiting www.mass.gov/dta, calling 1-866-950-FOOD, or visiting their local DTA office.

The DTA’s mission is to assist low-income individuals and families to meet their basic needs, increase their incomes, and improve their quality of life. Located within the Executive Office of Health and Human Services, the Department ensures that the emergency and transitional needs of the individuals and families of the Commonwealth are met through a combination of federal and state-funded programs. Massachusetts has a comprehensive system of programs and supports to provide individuals and families in need in order to achieve greater economic self-sufficiency.

The DAR’s mission is to ensure the long-term viability of local agriculture in Massachusetts. Through its four divisions — Agricultural Development, Animal Health, Crop and Pest Services, and Technical Assistance — the DAR strives to support, regulate, and enhance the Commonwealth’s agricultural community, working to promote economically and environmentally sound food safety and animal health measures, and fulfill agriculture’s role in energy conservation and production.

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